Three branches, one message: UNISON rejects below-inflation pay offer

UNISON members across three transport employers have balloted for strike action, following a pay offer of just 3.2%.

These workers include engineers, admin staff, project managers, transport planners, IT & environmental specialists, to name a few. They are essential operational support staff who keep bus, tram, rail and wider transport services running safely and efficiently.

Their work ensures that thousands of passengers can rely on accessible, coordinated, and secure public transport every day – making them some of the most vital workers in the transport system.

The 3.2% offer was made five months after unions submitted a pay claim and three months after the pay rise was due. It was rejected by a large majority.

UNISON says that these frontline workers – already on low wages – continue to face rising living costs without a pay increase that reflects the value of their work or the financial pressures they experience.

They originally requested a 5% increase plus RPI, a modest and reasonable claim given inflation and the demands of their roles. The employer countered with a significantly lower 3.2% offer, prompting all three branches to reject it.

Adding to members’ frustration, the employers have offered no commitment to introducing a four-day working week through a reduction in working hours with no loss of pay – an initiative that would boost morale and improve work–life balance for staff who are relied upon to deliver an efficient public transport service.

Members have also asked for a free bus and tram pass for all staff and their spouse/partner and children, as well as increases to essential allowances such as first aid, relocation, call-out, travel, accommodation, and subsistence. While these issues have been deferred to local consideration, UNISON urges the Passenger Transport Forum to honour the requests – especially given that such benefits are crucial for staff to carry out their roles effectively and have historically been offered to other transport workers.

Strike action so far 

The Transport for Greater Manchester branch has taken full strike action on 30 Oct, 5 Nov, 7 Nov, 12 Nov and 14 November and is currently undertaking action short of strike from 15–24 November. It also has action planned for 25-28 November inclusive.

The West Midlands Combined Authority branch took strike action on 14 November and began action short of strike on 15 November. The West Yorkshire Combined Authority strike dates are to be announced soon.

Further action

All branches are currently planning additional industrial action dates, including further days of full strike action.

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